Do you commonly experience headaches in the morning? Let us know if you wake up with headaches because it may indicate a more complex dental health concern. Recurring headaches are often a symptom of issues such as bruxism, TMJ disorders, or sleep apnea. Dr. Heather Adams can provide a comprehensive treatment plan to relieve chronic headaches in Rogers, AR.
At each dental exam, Dr. Adams thoroughly analyzes the bite and evaluates jaw alignment. She examines the function of the bite to help find solutions for relieving painful symptoms and preventing damage to the teeth and gums. Our Rogers, AR, dentist office uses a unique consultative approach to give patients the best dental care possible. We offer solutions for complex dental concerns in a comfortable and supportive environment.
Headaches and Your Oral Health in Rogers, AR
Dental problems can cause chronic headaches. TMJ, bruxism, and sleep apnea are all common oral health issues that can cause symptoms linked to headaches. Our office will work with you to find the specific cause of your headaches and the best solution. Learn more about common causes of headaches and treatments for headache-causing dental problems below.
TMJ Disorders
Jaw joint misalignment or malfunction causes a painful bite disorder known as a temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD). TMJ disorders can occur due to the TMJ, or joints that connect the jawbone to the skull. An injury or stress to these joints can lead to a bite disorder. TMJ disorders create added stress or tension to the complex system of muscles and nerves in the jaw.
Headaches are often associated with jaw joint stress. Treatment and TMJ therapy can address the alignment of the bite and related muscle tension. Biting and chewing with crooked or misaligned teeth can increase tension in the teeth and jaw that spreads throughout the face and head. TMJ treatment can reduce painful and frequent tension headaches.
Oral appliance therapy, physical therapy, and some medications can treat TMD. Lifestyle changes like improved posture and stress-relieving techniques can prevent TMJ flare-ups and chronic headaches. Heat compresses and a soft diet can also reduce headaches and jaw pain during these flare-ups.
Bruxism
Teeth clenching and grinding, or bruxism is a common cause of morning headaches. Patients often grind their teeth unknowingly during sleep. Continual grinding causes stress on the jaw and facial muscles. Muscle strain and stress contribute to tension headaches.
If you habitually grind your teeth, you may also experience broken or worn teeth. Tooth damage can worsen your bite function and increase facial pain.
We can prevent teeth grinding with a custom oral sleep appliance. The appliance is customized to cover the upper or lower teeth. Like a mouthguard, an oral appliance protects worn teeth, stopping further damage and orofacial (mouth and face) pain.
Once your bruxism is under control, we can restore your affected teeth. Dental crowns or tooth bonding can cover chipped, weakened, and worn teeth.
Sleep Apnea
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) occurs when soft tissues collapse at the back of the throat. These tissues block the airway during sleep, cutting off the normal oxygen flow. If you have OSA, you may often wake to gasp for air. This repeated oxygen deprivation can cause headaches when you first wake up.
This type of headache can feel different than others. Headaches from sleep apnea can feel like pressure on both sides of the head. If you suspect you have sleep apnea, you may also experience these symptoms in addition to headaches:
- Chronic fatigue
- Dry mouth
- Irritability
- Snoring
- Mood swings
Oral sleep appliance therapy may allow you to breathe normally while you sleep to prevent various related health issues. A custom-fit appliance opens the airways so you can sleep safely and comfortably. Treating sleep apnea can reduce the occurrence of headaches and other uncomfortable symptoms.
Are All Headaches a Dental Problem?
No, not all headaches are a dental problem. High blood pressure, damaged nerves, and infections are connected to headaches. It’s best to see a doctor first if you have headaches that you suspect arise from medical problems. However, if you notice symptoms connected to your teeth, jaw, or upper airway, you will need dental treatment to address your headaches.
Our office provides non-invasive treatment for headaches in Rogers, AR. If you suspect you have headaches due to a dental problem, you can visit Dr. Adams for an exam and consultation. Dr. Adams will examine your bite, jaw joints, and airway. She will take dental X-rays and consider your symptoms to find the best treatment to relieve your headaches.
“After a long day at work, who wants to go to the dentist? I DO!!!!! Heather Adams and her staff have created a relaxing, beautiful environment and dental experience that is so unlike any other I’ve had. They are excellent at what they do—from basic dental care, to crowns and implants, to Invisalign and cosmetic dentistry! That is why they are so often winning people’s choice awards here in NWA.
I’m currently enjoying a complimentary pumpkin spice coffee and listening to music in the gorgeous waiting room. Not a care in the world! You should try Heather Adam’s Dentistry! I think you will love it, as well!”
-Lindsey H.
Headaches FAQs
Do you want to know more? We’re here to help. Learn more about treating headaches at the dentist in Rogers, AR, with answers to these common questions.
Can a dentist help with headaches?
Yes, a dentist can often help treat certain types of headaches, especially if they are related to problems with your teeth, jaw, or bite. Dr. Adams can evaluate your symptoms to determine the cause of your discomfort. If your headaches are linked to TMJ (jaw joint) issues, teeth grinding, or sleep apnea, she may recommend a custom-fit oral appliance.
What else can I do to relieve my headaches caused by dental problems?
In addition to dental treatment, making a few lifestyle changes can help reduce headaches caused by dental problems. Try to manage your stress, since tension often leads to jaw clenching or teeth grinding. Practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing, gentle stretching, or meditation can help. Avoid chewing on hard objects like pens or ice, which can strain your jaw muscles.
Also, be mindful of your posture. Keeping your head and shoulders aligned can reduce pressure on your jaw and neck. Try to get enough sleep each night and stay hydrated throughout the day. These healthy habits can make a big difference in relieving headache pain.
Who should I see first if I am experiencing frequent headaches?
First, visit your primary care physician. You must ensure no serious medical condition is causing tension headaches or migraines. Your PCP may run various tests to rule out significant complications.
Then visit Dr. Adams for a full mouth assessment. She’ll see if teeth grinding, TMJ, or sleep apnea are to blame for your headaches.
How do I know if I have headaches because of sleep apnea?
If you have headaches caused by sleep apnea, you might notice a few key signs. These headaches typically occur in the morning when you wake up and often feel like a dull, pressing pain on both sides of your head. Other signs of sleep apnea include loud snoring, waking up feeling tired or gasping for air, and feeling sleepy during the day even after a full night’s rest.
Can Botox treat headaches?
If you have headaches, Botox can be a good treatment. Botox works by relaxing muscles and blocking pain signals, which can help prevent headaches from starting. You get Botox through a series of small injections, usually every three months.
Can certain foods trigger headaches?
If you have TMJ or bruxism, hard or crunchy foods can trigger headaches. Avoid foods like nuts, popcorn, and steak when you have a flare-up. Processed food, artificial sweeteners, and MSG can change blood sugar levels, which leads to headaches in some patients.
Too much caffeine can lead to withdrawal headaches if you suddenly stop drinking it. Also, having too little caffeine after regularly consuming it can lead to headaches.
Can stress cause headaches?
Yes. Your muscles can get tight when you’re stressed, especially around your neck and shoulders. This tightness can lead to tension headaches, which feel like a tight band around your head. Stress can also affect your sleep and cause other problems that might make headaches worse.
How do I know if I have a migraine?
To figure out if your headache is a migraine, look for these signs:
- Throbbing or pulsing pain
- Sensitivity to light and sound
- Headaches that last for hours or days
- Trouble seeing
- Stomach pain
Treat Headaches in Our Rogers, AR, Office
Prevent chronic headaches, jaw pain, and other painful symptoms by calling Dr. Adams at (479) 431-4212. You can also schedule an appointment with Dr. Adams using our online form.
Your health is our top priority. At your next visit, inform Dr. Adams if you have any questions about your specific symptoms or dental needs.